The first and the second miracles of Jesus are so very different. The first occurred at a wedding in Cana of Galilee. Mary, the mother of Jesus, implored Him to do something on behalf of the bride and her father. Mary’s request came about in a single, nondescript sentence, “They have no more wine.” It was a lack of preparation by the father of the bride. In those days, it would have been a deficit not soon forgotten by the guests and would have stained the reputation of the bride and her ill-prepared father.
Jesus performed a miracle by turning water into wine thus supplying a momentary, temporal need. He even replied to His mother that the time of His ministry had not yet come. Nevertheless, Jesus’ power was displayed for the love of His mother.
The second miracle, however, was far from the first. Death was knocking on the door of a young child. The request was made by a man of means. John wrote that the boy’s father was a nobleman; a royal official. Medicine and physicians could not change the sickness. The Bible states that the child was near unto death until Jesus spoke the word of healing.
The first miracle saved the reputation of the individual. The second saved a life. The first miracle allowed a dinner to continue uninterrupted. It was life as normal. However, the second gave restoration and a future. It showcased the high value the Lord puts on His creation. Jesus said it this way: John 10:10 I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
Please do not misunderstand. Every miracle performed by Jesus is wonderful. He is here to heal the heart, save the soul, and give new life. His provisions are a byproduct of His nature, but His purpose is found in scripture: Luke 19:10 For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.
Many pray for temporal blessings. They want quick fixes and momentary allowances. While Jesus is able, it is clear that He is looking beyond this mortal life and preparing us for eternal life. Sickness is common to both saint and sinner. Trouble occurs regardless of belief or lack thereof. However, a healed life is the clearest revelation of His intention. I’ll paraphrase the words of Jesus: “Just so you know I have power to forgive sins, I will heal the lame man. Because the greater is a saved soul.” The good news is that Jesus is here today to heal and to save.
Pastor Jeffrey Harpole